Looking For a Good Book?

Williamsburg Regional Library's award-winning Looking for a Good Book? service began in October, 2004.Since then, over 800 readers have taken advantage of the service, using either the Library’s paper or Web-based questionnaire to create a profile of their personal reading interests.Librarians have then used those profiles to develop custom reading lists, based on books and authors that the readers have already enjoyed as well as on the readers’ literary likes and dislikes.

Here’s what some of those readers have had to say:

"I’ve really enjoyed the books I’ve read so far. It’s been a pleasure to have someone else pick out really good books instead of me trying out a book and finding I don’t like it.”

“I've recommended this to a few people--it's great for new book leads, and for finding older books that are in my style."

“The questions made me think about my own reading preferences in ways that I had not previously done. It was well worth the time and made the excellent recommendations that I received possible. I have recommended this service to many, many people. The online questionnaire worked flawlessly which is not always the case with web-based anything!”

“I am frequently at a loss to find books that will enable me to expand my literary horizons. Your suggestions have shown me several new roads to explore. Thanks so much!”

“I loved this service. If you are a reader, you know we often go through dry periods, when we can’t find anything to read. This service keeps me out of the dry periods! It was as if the person who recommended the books to me completely understood my interests.”

Looking for a Good Book? was recognized by the Virginia Public Libraries Directors’ Association, receiving the 2004 Innovative Library Service to Adults award.To join the community of readers who have taken advantage of Looking for a Good Book? you can fill out our online form or stop by the Reference Desk at either library and pick up a reading suggestions form. If you have any questions, contact the Adult Services staff at 259-4050 or through email at read-l {at} wrl {dot} org.